Appellation Australia

Fast Facts: Variety: Riesling Region: Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Country: Germany Winemakers: Ernst and Thomas Loosen Closure: Screwcap Alcohol: 10%

This is the entry level Loosen Riesling which is made from non-estate fruit and made in an off-dry style. It cost me $20AUD, but I have heard reports that it can be found for under $10USD in the USA, Europe and Asia.

I am happy to see that it is sealed with screwcap (as are most of the Loosen wines that I have seen in Australia).

I have notes on the rest of the Loosen range (including two wines from his joint venture in the United States), that I will publish when I put up the notes from the recent Frankland Estate Riesling tasting. I believe that Hugo and Mick from the OzWineShow podcast also have an interview with Ernst Loosen coming up which should be good.

Tasting Note: Very pale green in appearance. Fresh nose shows peaches, apples, oranges, some banana and a hint of florality. Palate is a little bit broad and initially it seems a bit too sweet, before the crisp acid comes in on the mid-palate and follows through to the finish.

When to Drink: Now – 2008

Verdict: It isn’t destined to develop further, but it is very refreshing and the low alcohol (10%) is great – I rarely drink during the week at home – but this is a perfect wine for those occasions when I do. At $20 the value is good, but at $10 the value would be excellent. 88 points.